Background & History:
Capiz Shells or Windowpane Oysters are marine bi-valves found across the Indo-Pacific region and are particularly abundant around the Philippine province of Capiz. Although edible, they are valued both for their shells and the occasional pearls they produce.
Being translucent, the shells were traditionally used as a natural window. In recent years the Capiz shell has been extensively used to manufacture decorative interior features such as chandeliers, lampshades or candle light reflectors.